PWC PWC Navigation Rules 2

Question 1

What does a red buoy with an even number indicate in the US lateral marker system?

Accepted Answer

Keep it on your right when returning from sea

Answer

Under the US lateral system, red even-numbered buoys (nuns) are kept to starboard (right) when returning to port from sea — 'Red Right Returning.'

Question 2

What does a diamond-shaped buoy with a cross inside indicate?

Accepted Answer

Boat exclusion zone — no vessels allowed

Answer

A white buoy with an orange diamond containing an orange cross is a regulatory marker indicating a boat exclusion zone such as a swim area.

Question 3

What action should a PWC operator take when approaching a yellow diamond-shaped buoy?

Accepted Answer

Proceed with caution — it marks a hazard or obstruction

Answer

Yellow diamonds are hazard markers indicating rocks, shoals, or other dangers; operators should slow down and navigate carefully around them.

Question 4

What does a green can buoy with an odd number indicate?

Accepted Answer

Keep it on your left when returning from sea (heading upstream)

Answer

Green odd-numbered buoys (cans) are kept to port (left) when returning from sea or heading upstream, opposite the red buoys.

Question 5

What is a 'no-wake zone' and how must a PWC operator behave in one?

Accepted Answer

A zone where the vessel must travel slowly enough to produce no wake

Answer

A no-wake zone requires vessels to travel at the slowest speed necessary to maintain steerage, producing minimal or no wake to protect shorelines and other boaters.

PWC - Personal Watercraft Practice Test

PWC - Personal Watercraft Practice Test

PWC PWC Navigation Rules 2